“We have proven the feasibility of flexible blades in our test lab,” Beyene said. “The next step will be to design, build and test a larger model.”

In 2008, the Department of Energy and six major turbine manufacturers pledged to create “the roadmap necessary to achieve 20 percent wind energy by 2030.”

Though California may have the capacity to generate 20 percent of energy from wind farms, less than 3 percent of the state’s power currently derives from this source, Beyene said.

More than 90 percent of California’s wind-generating capacity and output are located in three regions, according to the California Energy Commission. They are: Altamont Pass, east of San Francisco; Tehachapi, southeast of Bakersfield; and San Gorgonio, near Palm Springs.

Beyene’s airfoil-shaped morphing blades improve the efficiency and maneuverability of wind turbines much as blade flaps or ailerons improve the operation of aircrafts at velocities other than cruising speed.

The concept comes from nature, specifically from Beyene’s observation of fish in an aquarium. “In flying and swimming creatures, the geometries of movement morph to adapt to a flow condition,” Beyene said. “We are moving from rigid geometry to a more fluid geometry that takes account of movement.”

MULTIMEDIA

"I Believe" 30 second spotWednesday, September 21, 2011

Shot throughout San Diego County, the spot features various community members repeating parts of the "I Believe That We Will Win" chant. Along the way, energy builds as the chant is joined by famous Aztecs such as Ralph Rubio and Mayor Jerry Sanders.